The Path from Sinner to Saint
This study explores the nature of sin, humanity's need for redemption, and God's complete plan for salvation, revealing the transformative power available through His grace.
1. The Nature of Sin
1.1 Definition of Sin
Verses: 1 John 3:4; Romans 3:23
- Sin is transgression of God's law and missing the mark of His divine standard.
- It encompasses both outward acts and inward attitudes contrary to God's will.
1.2 Origin of Sin
Verses: Genesis 3:6; Romans 5:12
- Sin entered the world through the disobedience of Adam and Eve.
- This act introduced a fallen nature and spiritual death to all humanity.
1.3 Consequences of Sin
Verses: Romans 6:23; Isaiah 59:2
- The ultimate consequence of sin is spiritual death and separation from God.
- Sin brings guilt, shame, and a broken relationship with our Creator.
2. Humanity's Fallen State
2.1 Universal Sinfulness
Verses: Romans 3:10-12; Ecclesiastes 7:20
- All people, without exception, have sinned and fall short of God's glory.
- There is no one righteous on their own merit.
2.2 The Heart of Man
Verses: Jeremiah 17:9; Mark 7:21-23
- The human heart is naturally inclined towards evil and deceit.
- Out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, actions, and desires.
2.3 Inability to Save Oneself
Verses: Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus 3:5
- No amount of good works, rituals, or human effort can atone for sin.
- Salvation is not by human will or power, but by divine intervention.
3. God's Complete Plan for Salvation
3.1 The Sacrifice of Jesus Christ
Verses: John 1:29; Hebrews 9:22
- Jesus Christ, the one God manifested in flesh, offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice for sin.
- His shed blood provides the only means for atonement and forgiveness.
3.2 The Authority of Jesus' Name
Verses: Acts 4:12; Philippians 2:9-11
- There is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.
- Every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.
3.3 Repentance and Water Baptism in Jesus' Name
Verses: Acts 2:38; Romans 6:3-4
- Repentance is a necessary turning away from sin and towards God.
- Water baptism by immersion in the name of Jesus Christ is for the remission of sins, identifying with His death, burial, and resurrection.
3.4 Receiving the Holy Spirit
Verses: Acts 2:4; Acts 19:5-6
- The indwelling of the Holy Spirit is God's promise to believers, empowering them for a new life.
- The initial evidence of receiving the Holy Spirit is speaking in other tongues as the Spirit gives utterance.
4. Living a Redeemed Life
4.1 Walking in Obedience
Verses: John 14:15; 1 John 2:3-6
- True love for God is demonstrated through obedience to His commands.
- A redeemed life is characterized by a commitment to follow God's word.
4.2 Overcoming Temptation
Verses: 1 Corinthians 10:13; James 4:7
- God provides a way of escape from every temptation.
- Resisting the devil and drawing near to God are essential for victory.
4.3 The Role of the Spirit in Sanctification
Verses: Galatians 5:16; Romans 8:13-14
- The Holy Spirit empowers believers to live a holy life, crucifying the deeds of the flesh.
- Walking in the Spirit leads to spiritual growth and transformation into Christ's likeness.